Am I Codependent?

If you are looking for codependency information then you may have noticed that the definition of codependent can imply many different behaviors and symptoms. The essence of the codependent definition is that a person will demonstrate excessive caring, to the point that it is inappropriate or harmful to one’s self. The codependent personality may be aggressive or even abusive in their controlling behavior. On the other hand, a codependent personality can also suffer abuse or encourage a self-destructive lifestyle of another person, thereby taking on the role of the “enabler.”

No matter how you define codependency, the point of the matter is that the relationship is unhealthy to either the caretaker, the subject or both persons. Codependents may have one primary relationship fitting this category or may have several relationships in which excessive care is given. It is one thing to be a controlling personality, but the symptoms of codependency go well beyond having a dominant personality.

Codependents may also have distrustful feelings towards others, have a fear of intimacy or sharing their feelings and suffer from clinical depression. The sadness and frustration a codependent feels from not being able to help matters can be crushing. Another factor to keep in mind is that codependent personalities often enter into relationships subconsciously looking for needy or emotionally unavailable people. The biggest problem here is that the codependent is trying to control a relationship but still ignore his or her own emotional needs. Because they are so focused on the other person’s happiness, they forget their own and set themselves up for failure and unfulfillment. This is not to mention the unhappiness of their unwitting dependent who may resent being controlled.

If you believe you or someone you know is suffering from a codependent relationship then counseling is the best treatment. Claudine Struck is "The Mind, Body, and Spirit Expert", and Author of "How to Stay Sane When Life Isn't". If you are ready to make you a priority, cultivate healthy relationships and live a more sane, happier life then this inspirational and unique approach to integrating mind, body spirit is for you. Get free tips now at www.staysanenow.com